How much does camping cost at Left Tailrace?

Camping fees at Left Tailrace range from $16-$22/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Left Tailrace first-come first-served or reservation?

Left Tailrace accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Left Tailrace before I book?

Yes! Left Tailrace has 9 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Left Tailrace?

Left Tailrace is open May 01 to September 30. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Left Tailrace?

Yes, Left Tailrace has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Left Tailrace have?

Left Tailrace has 93 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Left Tailrace?

Yes, pets are allowed at Left Tailrace. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Left Tailrace?

Left Tailrace offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Left Tailrace?

Popular activities at Left Tailrace include Fishing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Left Tailrace

Q: Can I have a campfire at Left Tailrace?

Fire policies at Left Tailrace: Firewood Alert! Don't Move Firewood: Due to the spread of invasive insects such as Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Help protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit DontMoveFirewood.org for further information.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.21

549 reviews

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, BIG BEND PROJECT OFFICE, 33573 NORTH SHORE RD, CHAMBERLAIN, SD 57325, USA

Top 21% in SDFall

FishingSummer Destination

Featured in:Group Camping South Dakota#3 Boating Camping South Dakota RV Camping South Dakota

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,371 ft

Price

$16 - $22/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

93 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

1,371 ft

Price

$16 - $22/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

93 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ElectricShowers

Book on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Left Tailrace

$16.00 - $22.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD ELECTRIC: $22.00; TENT ONLY NONELECTRIC: $16.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Hike and Bike Site Fee$16.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

605-245-2173. FOR RESERVATIONS, PLEASE CALL 1-877-444-6777.

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, BIG BEND PROJECT OFFICE, 33573 NORTH SHORE RD, CHAMBERLAIN, SD 57325, USA

Left Tailrace

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, BIG BEND PROJECT OFFICE, 33573 NORTH SHORE RD, CHAMBERLAIN, SD 57325, USA

Nearby places

Fort Thompson (3 miles), Chamberlain (20 miles), Pierre (65 miles)

Driving directionsFrom west bound I-90 take exit 265 at Chamberlain SD, turn right on to Highway 50 travel approximately 16 miles, turn left on to BIA Highway 4, travel 8 miles to Fort Thompson SD, turn left on to Highway 47 travel 3 miles then take a left at the Left Tailrace Campground sign on Big Bend Dam, then travel approximately 1 mile to the Left Tailrace Campground. From East bound I-90 take exit 248 at Reliance SD, take a left onto Highway 47 northbound, travel 18 miles to Big Bend Dam. Turn right after crossing the Power House bridge, then turn right at the Left Tailrace Campground sign, and travel about 1 mile to the Left Tailrace Campground.

Weather at Left Tailrace

Current alerts(3)

Protect Your Waters! Attention Boaters, Paddlers and Anglers: Do your part to help stop the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) by remembering to always Clean, Drain, and Dry! Visit SDLeastWanted.com for more information.
Summary of Campground Rules & Policies: All public-use of Corps of Engineers lands and waters are governed by Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) .
Want to know the latest happenings at Big Bend Dam? Be sure to like and follow us on Facebook at USACE Big Bend Dam for up-to-date information. Big Bend: Social Media

Best Time to Camp at Left Tailrace

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of weather, fishing, and lower crowds — daytime highs are typically in the 55–75°F range with crisp mornings (30s–50s at night), making shore- and boat-based walleye fishing very productive and comfortable. Migrating waterfowl and late-season prairie color make wildlife viewing especially rewarding, and insects are much reduced compared with summer. Expect moderate use (busy weekends around Labor Day, quieter mid- and late-September), and stable river flows below Peak months: September, June, May, July Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 21% in SD

Fall described as best: crisp days, fewer insects and productive walleye fishing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 01 to September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open for reservations May 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025.

About Left Tailrace

Left Tailrace sits on Lake Sharpe near Fort Thompson in South Dakota's foothills, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This large campground offers electric hookups, showers, and a dump station for tent and RV campers, with group sites available and a 14-day stay limit. Anglers come for walleye fishing, particularly productive in fall when cooler temperatures and migrating waterfowl enhance the experience.

Left Tailrace Campground offers a mix of camping options, including standard electric sites, tent-only sites, and double sites for larger groups.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of weather, fishing, and lower crowds — daytime highs are typically in the 55–75°F range with crisp mornings (30s–50s at night), making shore- and boat-based walleye fishing very productive and comfortable. Migrating waterfowl and late-season prairie color make wildlife viewing especially rewarding, and insects are much reduced compared with summer. Expect moderate use (busy weekends around Labor Day, quieter mid- and late-September), and stable river flows below Peak months: September, June, May, July Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation1371 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a transitional zone where the controlled reservoir above Big Bend Dam gives way to free-flowing river below. Grasslands stretch toward the horizon with minimal interruption, and the Missouri runs in a silver corridor through the plains. White-tailed deer browse near campsites at dawn, and migrating waterfowl follow the river corridor in spring and fall. Eagles and prairie songbirds work the thermals above the water. The landscape is exposed. Wind is constant and strong, with few natural windbreaks beyond planted shade trees at individual sites.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not offer hotel-style lodging, but it has ample camping options for tents and RVs.

Programs & ActivitiesBig Bend Dam tours are available from Memorial Day to Labor Day on weekends. Visitors can also explore the cultural history of the area, including the two tribes sharing the river's edge.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Standard Electric campsites allow one wheeled camping unit and one tent or two tents if no wheeled camping unit is present. Tent-only campsites allow two tents.

Groups

Group sites are limited and may include 'double' sites where two camping units can park back-to-back. These sites are often closer to the water.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

AccessibilityThe campground is equipped with paved roads and accessible water spigots. However, some campers noted difficulty accessing fishing areas due to rocky shores, which could be challenging for individuals with mobility issues.

Site SizeSites range from standard to large, with pull-through and back-in options available. Tent sites are generally spacious and well-situated, while RV sites are described as spacious enough to accommodate large vehicles and additional parking.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary across the campground. Some sites are described as spacious and private, particularly in the Lower Loop, while others, especially "double" sites, can feel cramped with RVs parked back-to-back. Shade and windbreaks are provided at many sites for added privacy.

Total Campsites93 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose waterfront sites like #12 for the best views and access to water. Avoid Site 17A due to its inconvenient location next to the bathhouse.

Best CampsitesSite 12 gets mentioned in reviews for its proximity to the river and views. Campers suggest avoiding site 17A due to its location near the bathhouse, and recommend skipping double sites (14–22 in the lower loop) if you want privacy. RVs end up parked back-to-back. Sites in the lower loop (1–12) are described as more spacious and private than the upper loop.

Need help booking Left Tailrace?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Left Tailrace Campground offers a variety of amenities aimed at providing both comfort and recreational opportunities for visitors. Facilities include 81 electrical hookup sites with 30 and 50 amp service, 12 non-electrical tent sites, comfort stations equipped with showers and toilets, a dump station, a boat ramp, a fish cleaning station, courtesy docks, picnic shelters, grills, drinking water access, paved roads, and a nine-hole disc golf range. Each campsite features a picnic table and fire ring, with many sites offering shaded areas and shelters over the tables. "The campground hosts are always attentive," and the grounds are "very clean and well kept." A large day-use area includes shelters and playgrounds, making it family-friendly.

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Left Tailrace Campground provides numerous recreational activities, with fishing being the primary attraction. Visitors can enjoy other activities such as disc golf, boating, birding, and picnicking. The campground also has playgrounds for children and large day-use areas.

Fishing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFirewood Alert! Don't Move Firewood: Due to the spread of invasive insects such as Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Help protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. Visit DontMoveFirewood.org for further information.

Cell CoverageWhile there is no explicit mention of cell phone service strength, one review mentions good Verizon coverage. Some users do not report on this feature.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.2

549 reviews

Satisfactory

Left Tailrace is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, friendly staff, and excellent fishing opportunities. However, some users have raised concerns about theft, water quality, and occasional late-night disturbances.

Review Summaries

Based on 549 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 549 reviews.

Site 12Loved
Site 12 in the Lower Loop is frequently praised for its views and proximity to amenities.
Site 17AIssues noted
However, Site 17A is criticized for being cramped and too close to the bathhouse.

What Campers Love

Visitors frequently commend the "friendly and helpful hosts," "large and level sites," and "well-maintained facilities." Many reviewers also appreciate the affordable rates, especially for those...

Based on 549 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include reports of theft, poor water quality (described as brown and sometimes chlorine-scented), and occasional disturbances such as loud music and vehicles during quiet hours.

Based on 549 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers suggest bringing long hoses for water access, as not all sites have close spigots. Some recommend avoiding certain sites, such as 17A (near the bathhouse) or double sites if privacy is a...

Based on 549 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews often mention high winds, bugs, and busy conditions, especially during holidays. Spring and fall are noted for their quieter atmosphere and cooler weather, making them ideal seasons...

Based on 549 reviews

Camper Quotes

"This Corps of Engineers campground is always awesome. The grounds, roads, and facilities are well maintained." - Steve W. "Bathrooms were very purpose-built... but there was poo on the wall in the...

Based on 549 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some reviews highlight difficulties for those needing accessible fishing areas, as the rocky shoreline can be challenging to navigate.

Based on 549 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed. Reviewers have generally positive experiences, with some mentioning dog-friendly staff.

Based on 549 reviews

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Go if

You want affordable lakeside camping with full amenities and serious fishing access during the seasonal window.

Skip if

You need guaranteed facility cleanliness or secure storage for valuables based on recent reviewer experiences.

Campgrounds

Lake Sharpe

Left Tailrace

About Lake Sharpe

Context for the broader area surrounding Left Tailrace, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Big Bend Dam, SD takes its name from the unique bend in the Missouri River 7 miles upstream from the dam. At this point in its course, the Missouri makes almost a complete loop, traveling 25 miles before returning to the "neck" where the land is not quite a mile wide. The 19 Lake Sharpe recreation areas vary from primitive to highly developed and provide opportunities for camping, boating, picnicking, and fishing.

Directions

From Sioux Falls, west on I-90 to Reliance, then north on SD 47.